FAQs: Neurotoxins & Dermal Fillers

 

  • Neuromodulators (otherwise known as neurotoxins) include Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Jeuveau. Neuromodulators consists of miniscule amounts of a substance called Botulism Toxin A. This substance causes muscles to relax. When neuromodulators are used consistently; you will notice a reduction in wrinkles and fine lines at the muscle area which has been injected in the face or neck.

  • Depending on which type is used can change the onset, but generally neurotoxin results often take 2-10 days and sometimes up to 14 days to kick in. You will have full results in 2-3 weeks.

  • Most neurotoxins will last between 3-4 months.

  • In short, it varies per person. Every person’s anatomy is different therefore a consult is what i recommend to get the best

    See the “typical” number of units below:

    -Glabella area (between the brows/11’s): 12-20 units

    -Forehead: 8-20 units

    -Crow’s Feet (Lateral eye area): 8-24 units

    -Lip Flip: 4-10 units

  • Dermal fillers are a natural way to fill depleted facial features or wrinkles and stimulate collagen.

    Dermal fillers plump and lift the skin gently to treat volume loss caused by your body’s natural aging process or to plump wrinkles, lines, and scars. Certain dermal fillers can even stimulate your body’s natural collagen production process to replace lost collagen over time for longer-lasting results. Most of today’s dermal fillers are 100% natural.

  • Fillers add volume to the facial tissue through its active ingredient, hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the human body. As facial tissues thin out, lines become etched around the nose and mouth and cheeks look a little hollow. Dermal fillers can replace lost volume to help smooth wrinkles, plump the lips, and restore a more youthful appearance.

  • lips, cheeks, undereyes, marionette lines, nasolabial folds, temples, neck lines, jawline, back of hands,

  • Mild bruising or swelling may be present for up to a week. Other potential risks will be discussed at time of consultation and treatment.

  • This depends on the product used and individual skin types. Typically, most injectables last between 6 months to 2 years.

  • Yes! Our products are FDA-approved and minimally invasive. Injectables are a great alternative to cosmetic surgery.

  • Depending on the patient and the type of treatment, you may have some minor swelling and bruising for up to ten days after your visit. You can resume your normal daily activities, but avoid extreme physical activity until any swelling goes down.

FAQs: Microneedling & PRP

  • SkinPen® is the only FDA approved microneedling device. Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation procedure that helps minimize the signs of aging, improve the appearance of acne scars and rejuvenate aging skin. The SkinPen® microneedling device causes controlled micro-injuries that stimulate the body’s natural wound healing process. The micro-injuries trigger the release of cytokines and growth factors that lead to remodeling and production of new collagen and elastin.

  • The procedure is performed in the office and usually lasts around 30 minutes. Prior to the procedure, topical anesthetic will be used to minimize discomfort during treatment. The SkinPen® is applied to treatment area and moved around on the skin in a methodical fashion. The depth of treatment is adjustable, so it is safe to use on the entire face, as well as neck and even hands. Even delicate area around the eyes and around the mouth can be treated with minimal discomfort. The procedure is not painless, but most patients rate the pain 2 out of 10!

  • SkinPen® is unique in that it provides dramatic results with minimal downtime. Immediately after treatment, you will be red and may feel that the treated skin is tight. The inflammatory response the SkinPen® sets in motion feels like a sunburn, but the process in the skin is very different. The next day, you’ll probably be pink and may still feel a bit irritated, but you can put on makeup and go about your normal activities

  • Following the treatment, you may see immediate smoothing in the first week. Additionally, you will continue to see improvement up to three to six months after your treatment as collagen continues to remodel. The best results are seen when three treatments are performed one month apart, however some people will benefit by having more than three treatments

  • SkinPen® is safe for patients of all ages and skin types. If you are interested in improving fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars or just want to rejuvenate tired-looking skin or achieve overall skin tightening – SkinPen® is the right treatment for you!

  • Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is an injectable treatment by which a person’s own blood is used. Platelets are vital in the process of tissue healing, and the growth of new cells. PRP thereby promotes collagen production, regenerates the skin tissue, and essentially re-energizes your cells into rejuvenating themselves. The release of growth factors amphiphiles the healing process. PRP softens fine lines and wrinkles, tightens the skin, and improves skin tone and texture.

  • You will have your blood drawn into a syringe. The collected blood is then spun down in a special centrifuge to separate its components. The platelet rich plasma is then reinjected, and/or micro-needled back into the skin.

  • Some mild discomfort may be felt while the PRP is being reinjected. The sensation typically felt is a burning or tingling sensation. This sensation only lasts a few minutes after the PRP injected. We ensure our patients are comfortable throughout the entire PRP treatment and apply topical numbing cream prior to injection.

  • Results from PRP injections can be seen for many months after treatment (12-18 months) However, these results vary due to the individual’s natural variation in quality of Platelet Rich Plasma, as well as their lifestyle. While we cannot stop the aging process, we can slow it down. Results from PRP injections can be extended with proper at home skincare maintenance.

  • Results can be seen after one treatment, but the exact amount of treatments needed varies from patient to patient. Generally, 2‐3 treatments are advised, but more may be indicated for some individuals.

FAQs: Chemical Peels

  • I carry the VI PEEL in my practice. They offer 6 different VI Peel formulas (5 for the face and 1 for the body) that target your unique skin issues and goals. I well assess your skin and we will talk about your goals and I will decide which peel to use to give you the best results.

  • Everyone’s skin is a little different, and the number of peels needed for desired results varies from person to person, and from skin condition to skin condition. While just a single peel will achieve significant skin rejuvenation (think less pigment, smoother skin texture, and brighter, glowier skin overall), in general, I recommend a series of 3-6 peels for optimal results.

  • Stop your retinol 3 days prior to your appointment

  • In general, you can expect to start peeling on or around day three and peel for about three to four days afterward. Each person’s peeling experience is a little different, and some may peel for more or fewer days, depending on the condition of the skin. If this is your first VI Peel, it’s also normal to peel for a longer period of time.

  • You should refrain from exercising for 72-96 hours after receiving the VI Peel to prevent any blistering in the skin or Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH). If prone to PIH or with pigment damage/melasma it is suggested to refrain for the entire 7-day peeling process so as not to induce heat or inflammation in the skin that can lead to further damage.

  • You want to avoid direct and extreme sun exposure for the first 7 days. Make sure you’re applying your VI Derm SPF 50 Sunscreen (provided in your Aftercare Kit) every morning. Also note that lifestyle sun exposure, like running errands, going for a walk, walking your dog, grabbing coffee, and driving, are all fine, as long as you are protecting your skin from the sun by wearing SPF and wearing a hat.